Chicago Car Accident Attorney Reminds Drivers to Be Safe this Winter

If you have been involved in a winter weather car accident due to another person’s negligent driving, we can protect your legal rights.

Chicago car accidents can occur anytime and anywhere. However, roads become more hazardous for drivers during certain times of the year such as during winter the winter months. A large number of accidents are reported during winter, and there are various factors that contribute to winter car wrecks.

There are millions of car accidents in the United States each year. Over 3 million people are injured and there are more than 37,000 fatalities due to these accidents. It is no wonder that traffic related incidents are one of the leading reasons behind lawsuits in the U.S. These accidents result in injuries including those involving pedestrians. In United States, 1 accident involving a pedestrian occurs every 7 minutes.

There are 3 common factors that contribute to winter car accidents including:

Bad weather: During winter, weather is one of the most common contributors to Chicago car accidents. Snow, slush and ice cause the roads to become slick, which can cause vehicles to slide through intersections, rear end other cars, and veer into oncoming traffic. Also, precipitation like sleet, rain and snow can reduce visibility, which is also a common contributing factor.

Impaired driving: In winter, there are more holiday parties and more opportunities to drink and drive, so there is an increased risk of impaired driving. It is important to drive responsibly and choose never to drive after having a drink, even if you think you have your senses and can reach home safely. However, impaired driving is not just limited to drunk driving. Medications for coughs and colds, such as over-the-counter medications, can sometimes affect a person’s ability to drive.

Wildlife: Wildlife is a major contributor to car accidents in winter months. Reduced visibility makes it harder to see wildlife crossing the roads. Also, slick roadways make it dangerous and difficult to react quickly enough in order to avoid hitting them. Also, the end of fall mating season and getting into the winter hunting seasons means that the animals are likely to be on the move.

It is important for drivers to be extra cautious during winter months. Drivers can take a number of steps to help reduce the number of winter related car accidents. Everyone play a part in making Chicago roads safer.

Contact a Chicago Car Accident Attorney

If you or a loved one have been the victim of a car accident due to another person’s negligence, contact our Chicago Car Accident Attorney today! Determining your best course of action is not easy without experienced representation. At Willens Law Offices, we know how to step in and take care of the details that will protect your rights and options, assuring you of the compensation you need and deserve. We relieve you of worry and stress so you can focus on getting well. Your health should be your primary concern, not dealing with insurance companies and other details that can cause you additional stress.